Week
1: Discussion Question 2
There are four main aspects I learned about building goodwill with a
reader. The first was to keep the emphasis off of me in business
writing. Instead the focus should be on the specific topic so
that the reader isn't alienated by the matter being about me, rather
than them. Secondly, the attitude needs to be presented in a
positive way, with an attempt to minimize the negatives.
Especially in business writing it is critical to always present a good,
positive view, whether your clients are internal or external, to
present the best image of the company and or department. Even
negative items can frequently be minimized through the use of some
rhetorical devices to minimize their negative impact. Third, I
learned about the negative impact of sexist terms. Frequently, in
my writing, it would be better to use a more generic pronoun, or title,
so that the reader is not offended by any sexist connotations.
Finally, with politeness I will be sure to use proper titles and
formality to ensure that I do not offend the reader. To the
contrary, by using proper tone and politeness this will serve to
enhance the relationship with the reader.
© Erik Smith 2005
Licensed under the GNU
Free Documentation License